Perhaps the biggest plus of the update is that Modern, formerly known as Metro, apps can now be pinned to the taskbar. Microsoft has also pinned the Windows Store to the taskbar by default, but it can be removed if desired.

A number of other changes are in, including access to context menus in the Modern Start screen, and the return of the red X button for Modern apps.

Sadly, the most called-for features, including the traditional Start Menu and windowed Modern apps, have been held back for a future update.

Update 1 is not really an optional upgrade, as Microsoft won't roll out any future security patches to your Windows 8.1 computer if you don't have it installed. This does not apply for those still on Windows 8.